Treatment Options For Gambling Addiction

Developing a strong support system is an essential step in overcoming your problem gambling addiction. Reach out to family and friends and build new friendships that don’t revolve around gambling. Join education classes, volunteer for good causes, and join a peer support group. You can also consider joining Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step recovery program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. This group requires you to find a sponsor, a former gambler who can offer support and guidance.

Problem gambling

The term problem gambling has a long history, dating back to the early 1800s when Emil Kraepelin first described it as “gambling mania”. The term has evolved since then, with the American Psychiatric Association publishing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) in 1980. The DSM-III criteria were based on Robert Custer’s work and now use a more evaluative approach. They now consist of nine symptom criteria, each of which has been proven to be indicative of problem gambling.

Gambling problems can cause social, emotional and physical devastation. It can lead to the loss of jobs and even health. Problem gamblers may even commit illegal acts to fund their addiction or to pay off gambling-related debts. In addition to the financial, mental, and physical consequences of problem gambling, those suffering from the condition are at a higher risk of suicide than people with other addictive behaviors. There are ways to overcome problem gambling, though.

Types of problem gambling

The term “problem gambling” refers to any type of gambling behavior that has a negative impact on the person engaging in it. Problem gambling can be financially destructive, deteriorating health, and even lead to domestic violence. It can also have negative effects on relationships, physical health, and performance at work. Listed below are some common signs of problem gambling. If you suspect that you are suffering from these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider to seek help.

Traditional typologies for problem gambling focus on a person’s psychological characteristics and character traits, rather than on the activity itself. These typologies often assume that personality traits are permanent, ignoring the importance of the social context in a person’s life, and the fluctuating intensity of excessive gambling activity. Several researchers have noted that these types of typologies miss key features of problem gambling. For example, online poker and live sports betting have increased event frequencies, and people tend to forget losses quickly.

Repercussions of problem gambling

Problem gambling has serious repercussions on the economy. The economic burden of problem gambling on the community can range from US$6 million to $39 million. In 2014-15, there were estimates that unemployment resulting from gambling-related problems cost the Victorian government more than $46.1 million. Another report showed that problem gambling can lead to criminal behaviour in the workplace. However, the exact causes and repercussions of gambling are unclear.

While gambling-related crimes may be the most obvious repercussions on the individual, these crimes can also impact the significant other. While petty theft from family members and illicit lending are both relatively common, the most devastating form of harm associated with gambling is violence. Pathological gambling is associated with increased rates of marital violence, dating violence, child abuse, and homicide in the family. Furthermore, more than half of problem gamblers have experienced some type of sexual or physical abuse from an intimate partner.

Treatment options

There are several treatment options for gambling addiction. Individual or group therapy may be beneficial, and can be very helpful in identifying and challenging addictive behaviors. Twelve-step programs or family therapy are also beneficial, and can combine various approaches to treat both addictions. Gambling addiction is particularly difficult to overcome due to its detrimental effects on personal finances and relationships. Treatment options for gambling addiction should be carefully considered for each person’s specific needs. The following are some of the most common types of treatment for gambling addiction:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used therapy for gambling addiction. This therapy is very effective in addressing both the addictive nature of gambling as well as the psychological impact of the behavior. In addition to using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI) is an effective treatment method for overcoming the problem. Many residential rehabs combine both of these treatments to provide the best chance for a successful recovery. During this phase, the individual will also attend various support groups and self-help programs that may provide additional support.